23 March 2026
We are generating ever more electrical and electronic equipment waste very quickly, and it’s becoming a serious problem!
What does the data say?
- Europe generates the most e-waste in the world: 17.6 kg per person.
- Europe has the highest collection and recycling rate (42.8% per person), but the trend is dropping.
- Recycling rate of electrical and electronic waste is still the lowest among all waste streams in Europe.
Why should you care?
- Toxic chemicals in e-waste (like mercury & lead) can cause brain damage and harm ecosystems.
- E-waste is growing 5x faster than recycling efforts.
So, what can you do to flip this trend?
- Keep your phone for one more year and you can create a huge impact.
- Repair before replacing.
- Choose to buy refurbished.
Read more:
1) https://unitar.org/about/news-stories/press/global-e-waste-monitor-2024-electronic-waste-rising-five-times-faster-documented-e-waste-recycling
2) https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/analysis/indicators/waste-recycling-in-europe?activeAccordion=546a7c35-9188-4d23-94ee-005d97c26f2b
